Families Invited to Share World War II Women Stories
Michigan manufacturing councils and community partners are working together to organize Michigan Rosie the Riveter Day on Friday, March 13, 2026. The event will take place at Capital Region International Airport and will honor women who supported manufacturing aerospace and agriculture during World War II.
Most people know that during the war many women stepped into roles that kept factories running, but many might not know about how they kept farms productive.
Yes, they built aircraft tanks, engines, and tools, but they also helped maintain food production at home. Their efforts changed the workforce and opened new opportunities for future generations of women.
“Michigan Rosie Day honors the women whose skill and resolve kept Michigan moving during wartime. We hope their example inspires today’s women in STEM and the skilled trades to pursue bold careers, and that these stories continue to shape how we teach, recruit, and remember,” said Cindy Kangas, Executive Director of the Capital Area Manufacturing Council.
Event organizers are asking families to help preserve these important stories. They encourage relatives and community members to look for photographs, letters, uniforms of factory memories and farm records connected to World War Two service and work. These items may be displayed in a historical slideshow and special exhibits during the event.
“We encourage Michiganders to open old boxes and make a few meaningful phone calls. Ask your parents, grandparents, and aunts what your family was doing during the war. Those conversations keep our country’s history, our local businesses, and our family legacies alive,” said Tanya Blehm, Event Coordinator.
Organizers also stress that every story matters. If a Rosie or veteran family member cannot attend in person, their story can still be included.
“We are deeply committed to accessibility. If a WWII-era Rosie or veteran relative is homebound or unable to attend, our team will work with families to ensure their story and likeness are represented. Children and grandchildren of Rosies are invited and encouraged to speak on behalf of their loved ones during the program so every legacy can be honored and shared,” said Jeannette Gutierrez, Rosie the Riveter Association of Michigan.
“When grandchildren share their Rosie’s story, they carry forward not just family pride, but the values of hard work and courage that define Michigan. Every Rosie’s story matters—whether told in person, through a photograph, or by a loved one. Michigan Rosie Day is committed to ensuring no voice is left behind,” said Wanda Norman, Automation Alley.
Families can participate by contacting Cindy at cindy@camconline.org or registering at https://mirosieday.org/. Event updates are also shared on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/share/1UHavGPDuz/.